Philippe went on as before; Charny grew warm, and wished to provoke him from this sang froid, therefore he said:
“I told you, sir, that we had not touched on the real cause of the quarrel.”
Philippe did not reply.
“The true cause,” continued Charny, “why you sought a quarrel, for it was you who sought it, was, that you were jealous of me.”
Still Philippe remained silent.
“What is your intention?” again said Charny. “Do you wish to tire my arm? that is a calculation unworthy of you. Kill me if you can, but do not dally thus.”
“Yes, sir,” replied Philippe at last, “your reproach is just; the quarrel did begin with me, and I was wrong.”
“That is not the question now. You have your sword in your hand; use it for something more than mere defense.”
“Monsieur,” said Philippe, “I have the honor to tell you once more I was wrong, and that I apologize.”
But Charny was by this time too excited to appreciate the generosity of his adversary. “Oh!” said he, “I understand; you wish to play the magnanimous with me; that is it, is it not, chevalier? You wish to relate to the ladies this evening how you brought me here, and then spared my life.”